Morning sickness happens in the morning, right?
Not necessarily.
The nausea and vomiting known as morning sickness can be experienced at any time of day or night. It affects up to 80 per cent of pregnant women and for many, it can go on beyond 20 weeks.
Morning sickness is severe for some women and moderate to mild for others. Be sure to see your doctor or midwife if you:
- are sick most of the time and can’t keep fluids or food down
- vomit more than five times a day
- have lost more than five per cent of your pre pregnancy weight
- pee less than three times in 24 hours
To help with morning sickness:
- Eat smaller amounts of food every one to two hours during the day
- Eat what appeals to you. Try to follow Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide as much a possible
- Switch to a liquid form of vitamins
- Try to keep taking your folic acid supplement even if you can’t stomach prenatal vitamins
- Avoid fatty and fried foods
- Sip small amounts of fluid often during the day. Fluids can include water, 100 percent apple juice, sparkling water or ginger ale
- Eat cold meals to avoid food smells, or have someone else cook
- Circulate fresh air in the bedroom while resting, and in the kitchen while cooking
- Nausea may get worse if you are tired
- Wear loose clothing around your chest and waist
Does my morning sickness harm my baby?
No. During pregnancy, the fetus takes the nutrients it needs from your body. Even if you aren’t eating very much, or if you are vomiting your food, the growing fetus should be fine.
Resources & Links:
HealthLink BC: Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy
HealthLink BC: Dealing with Morning Sickness